Jammu, July 21: Prominent Gujjar and Bakerwal leaders gathered in Jammu on Sunday for a crucial meeting chaired by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arshad Choudhary.
The assembly focused on discussing the various issues faced by the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities and evaluated the effectiveness of the BJP’s initiatives aimed at alleviating these challenges.
The discussions emphasised the significant strides made by the BJP in securing political reservations and ensuring representation in the Rajya Sabha for the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities, a statement issued here said, adding that this progress has provided these historically marginalised groups with a stronger voice in political discourse.
Arshad Choudhary highlighted the BJP’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of Gujjars and Bakerwals. “Our party has consistently worked towards the betterment of marginalised communities, and the results are evident in the increased political empowerment of Gujjars and Bakerwals,” he remarked.
“We have achieved significant milestones in securing political reservations and representation for our communities. This is not just a political victory but a step towards ensuring that our voices are heard at the highest levels of governance,” Choudhary added.
The meeting saw active participation from various influential leaders, including BDC Chairman, Sarpanch Anwar Khan, Mumtaz Ahmed Sarpanch, All India Gujjar Mahasabha President Ch Bashir Kohli, Sarpanch Ch Iqbal, Sarpanch Sadiq, Sarpanch Noor Mohammad, Sarpanch Karamat Ali, Qari Ali Akbar, Ch Shokat President of All India Saaf Suthra Movement, Ch Yusuf Panch, Bag Hussain Gujjar leader, Haji Bashir Panch Shadali, Ch Jameel Panch, Captain Rafiq, Ch Khurshid Ali, senior BJP leader Nasren Akhtar, and Ch Siraj Din Sarpanch.
The leaders discussed a range of issues, including socio-economic challenges, educational opportunities, and infrastructure needs in areas predominantly inhabited by Gujjars and Bakerwals. They acknowledged the positive impact of the BJP’s initiatives and called for continued efforts to address their concerns, the statement said.
Speakers at the meeting praised the BJP’s approach to addressing the needs of their communities. Sarpanch Anwar Khan highlighted the importance of political representation, stating, “The political reservations and representation in the Rajya Sabha have given us a platform to voice our issues and contribute to governance.”
Ch Bashir Kohli, President of the All India Gujjar Mahasabha, commented on the party’s commitment to their cause. “The BJP has shown a genuine commitment to the welfare of our communities. The efforts to improve access to education, healthcare, and employment have been particularly impactful,” Kohli said.
Ch Mumtaz Ahmad Sarpanch added, “The BJP’s initiatives have brought about a significant change in our communities. The focus on infrastructure development and social welfare schemes has greatly benefited us.”
Arshad Choudhary reiterated the BJP’s dedication to continuing these efforts. “We are committed to addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by Gujjars and Bakerwals. Our focus is on providing better educational and healthcare facilities, as well as creating more employment opportunities,” he stated.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to continue collaborating closely with the BJP to further the development and empowerment of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities. The leaders expressed their confidence in the party’s vision and its leaders’ dedication to their welfare.